The decision by the Arbeca Town Council to close the 7-a-side football pitch comes in response to a series of incidents, including tire marks from motorcycles and scooters on the grass, broken goal nets, damaged furniture, and an accumulation of litter, particularly sunflower seed shells. These facilities are intended for small-format trials and other sports activities that do not require the main pitch.
“"Given the misuse of the facilities, the town council had no other option but to limit access, and entry will only be permitted upon prior request to the council, to keep a record of who uses the football pitch at all times."
To control the use of the pitch, a municipal decree has been issued stating that anyone interested in using it must apply in advance for a specific day and time, present their DNI (national identity document), and assume responsibility for the facility. Mayor Francesc Roset has announced that this process will soon be digitized through a mobile application to streamline entry management.
Access to the pitch will be free for local entities and youth, as well as for local associations and organizations. However, an ordinance is planned that will include fees for teams and associations from outside the municipality. It is worth noting that these facilities suffered severe damage during the DANA storm in 2019, requiring financial aid for their recovery. The competition football pitch also remains closed and is only opened for training sessions and official matches of Arbeca C.F.A., which plays in Quarta Catalana.
